Whether you prefer yours with corn or flour tortillas, and stuffed with carnitas or no carne at all, picking a favorite taco is like picking a favorite child. After some taste testing (OK, a lot) and much debate, we narrowed down our picks and present them here. In no particular order…

“Totem Coffeein Placerville brings new meaning to the phrase ‘TGIF’ with their tasty vegetarian street taco that’s available Friday evenings from 4-6 p.m. Featuring perfectly spiced potatoes, garbanzo beans and bell peppers on a corn tortilla, it’s satiating without leaving you grossly stuffed—allowing plenty of room for a craft beer that the $6 combo comes with!”

“I’d never had—or heard of—mashed potatoes in a taco before until trying the Sinaloa-style tacos from Mexquite, and now I’m officially hooked! Filled with the aforementioned spuds and shredded chicken or beef, then fried to crispy perfection and served with lettuce, marinated onions, sour cream and queso fresco, they’re unforgettable and uber addicting.”

“If you’re a fan of al pastor, grab a couple of adovada tacos with all the fixin's from Freshmex Express Mexican Grill. The cubes of slow-cooked pork are marinated in a flavorful red chili (guajillo) sauce (it’s normally kept in the back, so you have to ask for it) and are a carnivore’s dream. Add some cilantro, fresh salsa, onions and a healthy squeeze of lime for a delicious lunch.”

“I love the shredded chicken tacos from La Rosa Blanca. The crispy shell has just the right amount of crunch, while lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, cheese and black olives add a welcome freshness to an otherwise hearty meal. Just don’t forget to add refried beans, rice and a cerveza!”

“Though not a Mexican restaurant, the Street Taco Trio from Folsom Tap House never disappoints. Pick your protein or mix and match—offerings include carnitas tossed in chili verde sauce, shredded barbacoa beef, fried calamari, chili lemon chicken (my fav!) and veggie—and get ready to have your palate blown. The owner, Stacey, really puts her heart and soul into making the eatery a local favorite, which probably explains why I’m a regular (especially during football season!).”